Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Where did Valentine's Day get its start?
Story has it that St. Valentine was a priest who refused an unattested law
attributed to Roman Emperor Claudius II, allegedly ordering that young men
remain single. It is said the Emperor did this to grow his army, believing that
married men did not make for good soldiers. The priest Valentine, however,
secretly performed marriage ceremonies for young men. When Claudius found out
about this, he had Valentine arrested, thrown in jail, and then executed on
February 14. While in jail Valentine wrote a love note to the jailor's daughter
signing it "From your Valentine."

Enough history, here's some fun facts!:
- In 1537, England's King Henry VII officially declared February 14 the
holiday of Valentine's Day.
- XOXO- a symbol of love. Many believe that the symbol X became synonymous
with the kiss in medieval times. People who couldn't write their names would
sign in front of a witness with an X. Then, the X was often kissed to show
their sincerity.

- It is said that chocolate will cure any heartache. In the 1800s
physicians commonly advised their patients to eat chocolate to calm their
longing for lost love.
- Chocolate purchased on Valentine's Day in the United States adds up to
over $1 billion.

- Alone for Valentine's Day? Send yourself flowers. It is said that 15% of
women send themselves flowers on Valentine's Day.
- 189 million stemmed roses will be sold in the United States on Valentine's
Day.
- The red rose was the favorite flower of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. The
color red is significant because it often symbolizes passion.

- Don't forget your furry friends- about 3-5% of pet owners will give their
pet a Valentine's Day gift.

- Kiss your Valentine first thing in the morning on Valentine's Day. To be
awoken by a kiss on Valentine's Day is said to bring luck.

Happy Valentine's Day! Still don't have plans? Remember Sophia's Restaurant
has a special 5 course menu available February 11, 12 and 14. Check out the
menu: here.
The Fairview also has many romantic packages available perfect for you and your
sweetheart. See packages, here.